Have a file that looks suspicious — but not enough to delete?
Don’t open it.
Here’s how to analyze it safely and deeply without execution.
✅ 1. Check file extension and name
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Real PDFs end in
.pdf, not.pdf.exe -
Beware of double extensions
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Right-click → Properties → See actual file type
✅ Hackers disguise EXEs as documents or images.
✅ 2. View file metadata
Use tools like:
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ExifTool (for media/documents)
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PEStudio (for Windows executables)
✅ See hidden details:
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Creator info
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Compile date
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Suspicious scripts
✅ 3. Upload to Hybrid Analysis
Go to https://www.hybrid-analysis.com
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Upload your file
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It’s executed in a virtual environment
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You get behavior reports (network calls, file creation, etc.)
✅ Great for advanced detection.
✅ 4. Use VirusTotal’s advanced info
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VirusTotal shows:
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PE headers
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Behavior
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Relationships with other malware
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✅ Don’t just look at “0/70” — scroll down for full analysis.
✅ 5. Never run it directly
If unsure:
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Keep it in a zip
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Don’t open it in email preview
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Don’t run it in real Windows without analysis
✅ Curiosity is dangerous — analysis is smart.
Key points to remember
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Extensions can be misleading — always double-check
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Use tools like PEStudio or ExifTool to examine metadata
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Hybrid Analysis = deep behavioral insight
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VirusTotal offers detailed threat info beyond detection counts
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If you’re unsure — don’t run it